The intensification of olive production methods in Croatia, has involved a widespread use of tillage resulting in progressive loss of natural vegetation in comparison with traditionally managed ones with mowing or grazing. Tillage may impact the epigeic fauna and its diversity. To quantify that difference, we have analyzed epigeal arthropod diversity in 4 tilled and 4 mowed groves in Central Dalmatia. Field survey was undertaken in spring 2011 and arthropods were collected using pitfall traps filled with ethanol. Here, we compared higher taxonomic levels as a tool for rapid biodiversity assessment, as well as spider diversity at species level to detect which method could better distinguish different management systems. Five groups of arthropods were recorded: Arachnids, Insects, Entognaths, Isopods and Myriapods. Altogether 5447 individuals have been sampled, with 84% of them being insects. Among arthropods, the highest portion of beetles were recorded, followed by ants and spiders. Although, there were similar numbers of beetle individuals in the both types of management, high differences between the families were observed. Tenebrionid and carabid beetles were more abundant in tilled, while staphylinid beetles were more abundant in the mowed groves. Diversity of spiders also reflected different types of management. Obtained results imply that mowing is much better type of management in olive groves with respect to epigeic arthropod diversity. Higher taxonomic level methodology (HTLM) could be used for rapid assessment of biodiversity in olive orchards at a local scale, in different managements regimes.